Stony Brook University Simons Center for Geometry and Physics, Stony Brook, United States

Simon Says: Collaborate

Innovative research and physical sciences facility in Stony Brook connects theory with practice in bold architectural form

Stony Brook University selected Perkins Eastman to design a 39,000 sq ft world-class mathematics research and physical sciences facility located on their main campus. With a strong vision to propel mathematics and physics at Stony Brook into the international arena, the overall building and its programmes were not compared to that of a typical academic facility.

Instead, the planning and design took cues from prominent research institutions and innovative companies that share similar functions in interdisciplinary thinking, collaboration, and research. The new Simons Center for Geometry and Physics, in concept and function, represents the convergence of ideas between these two disciplines, which have greatly developed in recent years. The building’s main goals are to create a dynamic environment for interaction, academic study, and collaboration among the two schools of thought.

Programmatic elements include a 250-person lecture hall/auditorium, office space, seminar rooms, a multi-story atrium, and open discussion areas. A pedestrian bridge joins the new centre with the existing math tower and physics building, enabling access to all areas of study. As the nexus for the schools programs, the building itself is a prominent, technologically sophisticated mark on the campus employing sustainable strategies to achieve LEED Gold certification.